Canon has long been a trusted name in the world of photography, and its Sure Shot series is no exception. Launched as an accessible line for photography enthusiasts, the series introduced a variety of models to cater to different needs. Among these, the fourth model — known by multiple names including the Sprint, AF35J (Jet), and Autoboy LITE — stands out for its design and features.
Design and Features
The Sprint, or as some regions know it, the AF35J or Autoboy LITE, showcases Canon’s dedication to blending form with function. Available in two classic colors, red and black, it captures attention not just with its aesthetic but also with its technical attributes. A key highlight is its near-infrared beam, employed for seamless autofocusing. For those who prefer more control, the camera also allows manual focusing, particularly useful for close-up shots down to 45 cm. Furthermore, Canon recognized the growing trend of date imprinting in the mid-’80s and responded with the Autoboy LITE QD variant, a feature that proves handy for documenting moments in chronological order.
Film and Film Format
In an age dominated by digital formats, the Sprint/Autoboy LITE brings us back to the tactile charm of film photography with its fully automatic 35mm film capability. Notably, this camera utilizes the DX coding system, simplifying the film speed selection process and supporting ISO 100 and 400. For those who are both new to film or looking to experiment, several 35mm film options are worthy of consideration:
- Kodak Portra 400: Renowned for its fine grain and rich colors, this is an excellent choice for portraits and outdoor shots.
- Fujifilm Superia X-TRA 400: A versatile film known for its vibrant colors and consistent performance, making it suitable for various lighting conditions.
- Ilford HP5 Plus 400: For those who love black and white photography, this film offers sharpness, contrast, and the classic monochromatic look.
- Kodak Color Plus 200: Offering sharp images and pleasant saturation, this film can be a more budget-friendly choice for everyday photography.
Furthermore, Canon has streamlined the film handling process by incorporating a Motorwind mechanism for film advance and an intuitive automatic rewind system, reducing the chances of manual error and making the entire photography experience smoother.
Power Source and Battery Life
The heartbeat of the Sprint/Autoboy LITE is its power source: two 1.5V AAA batteries. These batteries are not just easily accessible but are also affordable, making it convenient for users to replace them as needed. If you’re looking to stock up, AAA batteries can be readily purchased on Amazon.
Battery life is always a significant concern for photographers, and with this model, the typical battery longevity largely depends on usage patterns. For instance, frequent use of the built-in flash or the Motorwind feature can result in faster battery depletion. On average, and under moderate use, one can expect the AAA batteries to last for several rolls of film before necessitating a change. It’s always a good practice to carry a spare set, especially during extended photo sessions or while traveling, to ensure that the camera is always ready to capture the next memorable moment.
Exposure Control and Light Metering
Exposure plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect shot, and with the Sprint/Autoboy LITE, Canon offers a system that marries simplicity with precision. The camera is equipped with electronic control systems for both exposure and aperture, ensuring the user gets consistent results, regardless of varying lighting conditions.
The shutter speed of the Sprint/Autoboy LITE ranges from a leisurely 1/40s, suitable for well-lit environments, up to a swift 1/250s, ideal for capturing quicker movements or reducing the potential for motion blur. The aperture, on the other hand, can be adjusted between f/3.5 for dimmer settings, letting in more light, to f/11 when there’s an abundance of ambient illumination.
Its metering system, operating within a range of EV 9 – 15 (at ISO 100), is adept at judging the amount of light in a scene and making corresponding adjustments. This ensures your shots are neither too bright nor too dark but just right. However, it’s essential to note the absence of a self-timer in this model, meaning that capturing group photos with the photographer included might require a bit of ingenuity or an extra hand.
Size, Weight, and Ergonomics
The Sprint/Autoboy LITE, with dimensions of 123x68x45 mm, stands as a testament to Canon’s commitment to compactness without compromising on quality. Weighing in at a mere 250g, inclusive of batteries, it feels lightweight in the hand, making it an ideal companion for spontaneous adventures or extended photo-walks. This camera’s ergonomic design caters to prolonged usage, with its contours fitting naturally within the grip of most hands. Given its compact nature, users will find it easy to navigate the camera’s features and settings without feeling overwhelmed.
User Base: Beginners or Advanced Photographers?
When diving into the features of the Sprint/Autoboy LITE, a question arises: Is it more tailored for the budding photographer or the seasoned pro? Its intuitive design and straightforward features lean more towards beginners. The automatic exposure and focus settings simplify the process, allowing novices to capture great shots without delving deep into manual configurations. However, the manual focus option down to 45 cm also indicates Canon’s nod towards more experienced photographers looking for a handy, secondary camera. In essence, while it predominantly caters to beginners, its select features ensure that even advanced photographers find value in its capabilities.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Camera Type | Fully automatic 35mm Lens-Shutter autofocus camera |
| Picture Size | 24 x 36 mm |
| Lens | 35mm, f/3.5 (3 elements in 3 groups) |
| Macro Capability | Down to 45cm with flash, 90cm without |
| Shutter | Electromagnetic programmed shutter and aperture. EV 9 (f/3.5 at 1/40 sec.) – 15 (f/11 at 1/250 sec.) |
| Self-Timer | Absent |
| Viewfinder | Reversed Galilean viewfinder with projected frames. Within the image area are the AF frame, parallax correction marks, battery check and camera-shake warning, in-focus indicator, and near distance warning. 0.45x magnification. |
| Light Metering (EE) | SPC for full-auto program EE. Metering range of EV 9 – 15 (at ISO 100). Film speeds ISO 100 and 400 (with DX code) |
| Built-in Flash | Guide No. 9 (at ISO 100 in meters). Mechanical automatic flash |
| Power Source | Two 1.5 V size-AAA batteries |
| Film Loading & Advance | After opening camera back, align film leader at mark then close the camera back for auto loading. Film advance is automatic with built-in motor. |
| Frame Counter | Counts up. Resets automatically when camera back is opened |
| Film Rewind | Automatic rewind with built-in motor |
| Dimensions | 123 x 68 x 45 mm |
| Weight | 250 g (with batteries) |
| Special Feature (Autoboy LITE QD) | Date impr |
Conclusion
The Canon Sprint/Jet (AF35J)/Autoboy LITE encapsulates a blend of vintage charm and modern features. Its compact design, combined with a suite of functionalities, positions it uniquely in the market. While it’s an ideal pick for beginners venturing into film photography, its select features ensure that even advanced photographers can appreciate its merits. The camera stands as a testament to Canon’s ability to cater to a broad audience, delivering quality and value in one sleek package.
